Littleton Public Schools (LPS) is proud to announce a new partnership with the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) that will create a direct admission pipeline for qualifying LPS students, expanding access to higher education opportunities and helping students confidently plan for their futures.
Through a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), LPS students who meet established academic criteria will receive guaranteed admission to CU Denver: maintain a cumulative weighted or unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher. Application fee waivers and additional college transition support are also part of the agreement for LPS students.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment between LPS and CU Denver to support college readiness, remove barriers to higher education, and provide students with clear and accessible post-secondary pathways.
“This partnership is an exciting opportunity for our students and families,” said Dr. Todd Lambert, Superintendent of Littleton Public Schools. “We want every student to graduate with a strong plan for their future, and this agreement with CU Denver creates another meaningful pathway for students to pursue their goals with confidence. We are grateful for CU Denver’s collaboration and commitment to supporting LPS students beyond graduation.”
LPS and CU Denver representatives celebrated the partnership during a signing event recognizing students who have committed to attending CU Denver this fall. The event highlighted the strong connections between K–12 education and higher education and showcased students taking the next step in their educational journeys.
Deputy Superintendent Melissa Cooper said the partnership demonstrates LPS’s focus on preparing students for success after high school while expanding opportunities for all learners.
“At LPS, we are committed to helping students discover pathways that match their passions, strengths, and aspirations,” Cooper said. “This direct admission partnership with CU Denver sends a powerful message to students that college is accessible and achievable. It also strengthens the support system around students as they transition from high school to higher education.”
The direct admission agreement aligns with the district’s ongoing efforts to provide students with future-ready experiences and real-world opportunities through strong community and higher education partnerships.
“As the state’s premier public urban research institution, this direct admissions agreement with LPS reflects our commitment to lead not only with words, but through action,” said CU Denver Chancellor Kenneth T. Christensen. “Guided by our public service obligation, we are creating meaningful, accessible pathways into higher education in order to deliver real value to our students, their families, and the communities we serve. It’s our hope that more Littleton graduates than ever will see themselves in higher education—and gain access to the transformational power and expanded economic mobility that a CU Denver degree makes possible.”


